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For the first time, Université de Montréal (UdeM) students will have the opportunity to delve deeply into Haiti’s rich and complex history under the guidance of Lyns-Virginie Belony. This initiative marks a monumental step in elevating Haitian narratives within academia and challenging entrenched stereotypes.

Lyns-Virginie Belony, a historian specializing in Caribbean history and the Haitian diaspora, joined UdeM’s Department of History as an assistant professor in January. She began teaching an introductory course on Caribbean history. She will launch a dedicated Haitian history course in September, highlighting Haiti’s pivotal global role and reinforcing UdeM’s commitment to diversity and nuanced scholarship.

Raised in Québec by Haitian parents, Belony’s passion for Haitian history stems from her desire to counter oversimplified portrayals of her heritage. Her academic journey has been defined by groundbreaking research, including a master’s thesis on the U.S. occupation of Haiti and doctoral studies examining the memory of the Duvalier dictatorship (1957–1986) within Montréal’s Haitian diaspora. Her findings highlight the diverse and often conflicting memories of the regime, offering critical insights into the complexities of collective identity and historical trauma.

Belony’s research explores the Caribbean’s role in the Pan-African movement, highlighting how 20th-century intellectuals redefined Black identity and challenged colonial narratives. Her work connects historical analysis to contemporary issues, emphasizing the Caribbean’s importance in global discussions on race and solidarity.

“Lyns-Virginie Belony’s appointment is transformative,” said a UdeM colleague. “Her expertise enriches academic discourse and inspires critical thinking on identity and diaspora.”

This milestone represents more than an academic achievement; it is a call to reexamine Haiti’s overlooked contributions to global history. By placing Haitian history at the forefront, UdeM is embracing diversity and fostering a richer understanding of the interconnectedness of our world.